2026 Surf-a-thon

What is the Paddle for Clean Water?

Join us for the 32nd Annual Paddle for Clean Water, hosted by the Surfrider Foundation San Diego County Chapter on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 9:00 am at Mission Beach Park (just south of Belmont Park).

Originally launched in the 90s as a protest against sewage pollution, the Paddle for Clean Water has grown into an annual event uniting surfers, swimmers, and ocean enthusiasts in a powerful show of solidarity for protecting our coastline and improving ocean water quality.

This year, we're doing things a bit differently. While the event is iconic for paddling around the Ocean Beach Pier, our new location brings a fresh opportunity. Paddlers will be asked to head past the break and line up in the water, creating a striking visual, similar to Hands Across the Sand, but in the water. Together, we’ll make a bold statement for clean water.

The event also invites San Diegans to come together and participate in a variety of activities including morning yoga, a coastal ribbon project, a paddle out, a beach cleanup, and live music—all while celebrating the year’s accomplishments.

What is the Surf-a-Thon?

On October 11, surfers and ocean lovers of all levels will gather at La Jolla Shores for two hours of wave-riding, fundraising, and community. Riders will pledge to catch as many waves as possible and use that commitment to raise money for local ocean conservation. Prizes — all sustainable, of course — go to top fundraisers and other categories.

Not a surfer? You're still part of the crew. Come to the beach, wake up with morning yoga, cheer on riders, explore Surfrider's work, and celebrate San Diego's coastline with fellow friends of the ocean. Families are welcome.
San Diego's coastline isn’t just iconic, it’s where we play, make memories, and connect with nature — and it needs defending.

Surfrider Foundation San Diego is fighting on three critical fronts right now:
- Preventing Offshore Drilling: The federal government is pushing for new offshore drilling in California, including here in San Diego. We're actively supporting legislation that counters this imminent threat to our ocean ecosystems, marine life, and the blue tourism economy that San Diego depends on.
- Restoring the Tijuana River Watershed: Transboundary pollution has caused over 1,600 days (and counting) of beach closures and serious health risks for residents in our border zone and beyond. We advocate for policies and funding needed to clean up this critical watershed.
- Protecting the California Coastal Act: The Coastal Act, as it’s commonly known, protects two key rights: public beach access and coastal preservation. To make sure our rights under the Coastal Act could be enforced, the legislature created the California Coastal Commission. But now those rights are under attack as the Trump administration seeks to weaken or eliminate the Coastal Commission. We're here to stand up to those who would sell out our state and sell off our coast through our “Love Your Beach” campaign.
Every dollar raised at the Surf-a-Thon directly funds this work.

Our Progress

Make Waves for What Matters

The Surfrider Foundation is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves and beaches, for all people, through a powerful activist network.

Support the Cause

8:00 – 8:30 AM – Participant Check-In
- Participants check in and confirm registration and waivers
- Participants receive instructions and heat schedule
- Participants prepare equipment and stage for opening announcements
8:30 – 9:00 AM – Opening Announcements & Safety Briefing
- Welcome remarks and event overview
- Review of safety protocols and surf zone boundaries
- Introduction of Event Safety Lead, Water Safety Representative, and volunteers
- Explanation of heat format
- Final Q&A before entering the water
9:00-9:30 am – Yoga with [TBD]

Instructor leads non-surfing attendees in a yoga flow session

9:00 – 11:25 AM – Surf-a-Thon Heats

Throughout all heats:
- Safety Lead and volunteers monitor ocean conditions and participant safety
- A designated Water Safety Representative coordinates heat transitions, ensuring the next group is staged and ready to enter the water as the previous group exits
- Event staff manage heat operations
11:45 AM – 12:00 PM – Awards & Closing
- Announce winners (Top Fundraiser, etc.)
- Thank sponsors, volunteers, and participants
- Closing remarks
12:00 – 1:00 PM – Final Cleanup & Breakdown
9:00 – 11:30 AM – Surf-a-Thon Heats

Heat 1 – Longboard Division | 9:00 – 9:45 AM

Transition: 9:45 –9:50 AM

Heat 2 – Shortboard Division | 9:50 – 10:35 AM
Transition: 10:35 – 10:40 AM

Heat 3 – Boogie Board Division | 10:40 – 11:25 AM

Throughout all heats:
- Safety Lead and volunteers monitor ocean conditions and participant safety
- A designated Water Safety Representative coordinates heat transitions, ensuring the next group is staged and ready to enter the water as the previous group exits
- Event staff manage heat operations

Address: La Jolla Shores Park, 8300 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037 - North side grassy area.

Merchandise: Bring your wallets! We’ll be selling event shirts, Surfrider swag, and more.

Bring Your Own Board: We will not providing boards of any kind for this event.

Parking: You can park in the La Jolla Shores Parking (8324 La Vereda, La Jolla, CA 92037) or on nearby residential streets. Please read all posted parking signs carefully, as restrictions may apply.

Public Transportation: The MTS Bus Route 30 UTC/VA Med Ctr. takes you to La Jolla Shores. Get off at La Jolla Shores Dr & Calle De Oro. Walk W on Camino Del Oro towards La Jolla Shores Park.

Restrooms: Beach restrooms and showers are public and available.

Supporting Our Mission

Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors

Event Sponsors

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our amazing sponsors for their unwavering support. Your contributions help us continue the vital work of protecting and preserving our oceans, waves, and beaches. Thank you for standing with us in our mission!

2026 Surf-a-thon

Ride the Wave. Protect the Shore.

Ride Waves. Raise Money. Protect the Ocean.

What is the Paddle for Clean Water?

Our Progress

Make Waves for What Matters

How to Get Involved

What to Expect

Sponsored by [your company name here]

Beach Cleanup

Before You Go

Supporting Our Mission

Event Sponsors